Meet New Books

Books matching: candid reflections on life

21 result(s)

Readers also searched for:

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 21 
  1. #1

    Truth in Advertising by John Kenney
    Save:

    Both satirical and sincere, 'Truth in Advertising' is a clever, funny, and unexpectedly moving look at life, work, and family - especially relatable for anyone who's ever wondered, 'Is this it?'

    'Truth in Advertising' by John Kenney follows the story of Fin Dolan, an advertising copywriter in New York who is struggling with his personal and professional life. The novel delves into Fin's inner turmoil, his dysfunctional family dynamics, and his journey of self-discovery. Through humor and drama, the author portrays the absurdity of corporate life, the complexities of love, and the search for meaning in family relationships. The writing style combines wit, humor, and clever observations about the advertising industry, providing a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those working in the field.

    January 2013
    361 pages

  2. #2

    Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith by Anne Lamott
    Save:

    Poignant, funny, and refreshingly real - a modern classic for anyone exploring faith and life’s big what-ifs, best enjoyed by those who appreciate soul-baring storytelling and honesty over perfection.

    Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott is a memoir that delves into the author's personal faith journey, showcasing a non-traditional Christian viewpoint filled with vibrant anecdotes and reflections on life, forgiveness, and hope. Lamott's writing style is described as honest, real, and humorous, as she bares her soul and shares her struggles and demons, making her journey both intriguing and inspiring. The book covers various themes such as faith, grace, wisdom, and the continuous struggle to relinquish control to a higher power.

    at the airport in St. Louis with, I think, the not unreasonable expectation that we would be in the air soon, as our flight had already been delayed two hours. I was anxious to get home, as I had not...
    January 1999
    303 pages

  3. #3

    Mortality by Christopher Hitchens
    Save:

    A short, brutally honest, and darkly humorous reflection from one of the world's sharpest minds as he faces his own mortality - essential for Hitchens fans, worthwhile for all who ponder life and death.

    Mortality by Christopher Hitchens is a collection of essays chronicling the author's battle with cancer, offering a candid and unsentimental reflection on facing death. Hitchens writes with his trademark wit and eloquence, discussing the physical, social, psychological, and philosophical aspects of his journey towards the inevitable. The book provides insights into his thoughts on mortality, religion, and the experience of living with a terminal illness, all while maintaining a sense of courage and resilience.

    The notorious stage theory of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, whereby one progresses from denial to rage through bargaining to depression and the eventual bliss of “acceptance,” hasn’t so far had much applicat...
    September 2012
    124 pages

  4. A gutsy, gorgeously written memoir that blends culinary passion and raw honesty - unforgettable for some, polarizing for others. Perfect for readers who like their food stories tangled up with all the messy parts of real life.

    Blood, Bones & Butter: The Inadvertent Education of a Reluctant Chef by Gabrielle Hamilton is a memoir that takes readers on a journey through the author's life, focusing on her experiences related to food and cooking. Hamilton shares candidly about her upbringing, her struggles, her successes, and her journey to becoming a renowned New York chef. The book is described as a mix of food writing, personal reflection, and storytelling, providing a glimpse into the world of kitchens and the challenges and triumphs of building a life around food.

    WE THREW A PARTY. THE SAME PARTY, EVERY YEAR, WHEN I WAS a kid. It was a spring lamb roast, and we roasted four or five whole little guys who each weighed only about forty pounds over an open fire and...
    2001
    306 pages

  5. #5

    Untamed by Glennon Doyle
    Save:

    A powerful, messy, and inspiring exploration of self-liberation and authenticity - sometimes uneven, often thought-provoking, and sure to spark big feelings. Untamed will either light your fire or leave you cold, but you’ll definitely have something to talk about.

    'Untamed' by Glennon Doyle is a memoir that delves into the author's journey of self-discovery and breaking free from societal expectations. The book narrates Doyle's transformation from living a conventional life as a wife and mother to embracing her true self after falling in love with a woman named Abby. Through a series of short stories and reflections, the author challenges the norms of conformity in relationships and advocates for following one's heart, despite the uncertainties and challenges that may arise. The writing style is a mix of personal anecdotes, self-help advice, and thought-provoking messages, creating a narrative that encourages readers to trust themselves and live authentically.

    When I heard her car return, I settled into the couch, opened a book, and tried to slow my pulse. She walked through the door and directly toward me, bent down, kissed my forehead. She pushed my hair...
    July 1905
    327 pages

  6. #6

    I'm With The Band: Confessions Of A Groupie by Pamela Des Barres
    Save:

    Scandalously fun and packed with legendary stories, this is a breezy, cheeky read that’s more about feeling the moment than finding deep life lessons - a must for rock fans and memoir lovers seeking real backstage access.

    'I'm With The Band: Confessions Of A Groupie' by Pamela Des Barres is a memoir that takes readers on a journey through the author's experiences as a groupie in the 60's and 70's rock and roll scene. The book provides a glimpse into the music industry of that era, with mentions of famous musicians like Jimmy Page, Jim Morrison, and Mick Jagger. Des Barres narrates her encounters with these rock stars in a gossipy and scandalously fun manner, giving readers an inside look at the wild and carefree lifestyle she led.

    The writing style of 'I'm With The Band' is described as engaging, charming, and even novel-like, making it an enjoyable and entertaining read. The author's witty storytelling and candid accounts of her escapades with rock stars add depth and insight into her emotional journey during a time of free love, music, and self-discovery.

    I get shivers whenever I see those old black-and-white films of Elvis getting shorn for Uncle Sam. When he rubs his hand over the stubs of his former blue-black mane, I get a twinge in my temples. In...
    1987
    372 pages

  7. #7

    Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher
    Save:

    A hilarious, chaotic, and candid look at Carrie Fisher’s life that’s perfect for fans of dark humor and Hollywood confessions - but it’s more comedy monologue than full-on memoir.

    'Wishful Drinking' by Carrie Fisher is a memoir based on her one-woman show, offering a candid, humorous, and sometimes sad reflection on her life as a celebrity child, her struggles with addiction and mental health, and her experiences in Hollywood. Fisher's writing style is described as witty, sharp, and self-deprecating, with anecdotes that provide insight into her unconventional upbringing, relationships, and the challenges she faced in the spotlight.

    What that really means, other than what it sounds like, is, let’s say something happens and from a certain slant maybe it’s tragic, even a little bit shocking. Then time passes and you go to the funny...
    December 2008
    177 pages

  8. #8

    Bitter Is the New Black: Confessions of a Condescending, Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smartass, Or, Why You Should Never Carry A Prada Bag to the Unemployment Office by Jen Lancaster
    Save:

    Hilarious, brutally honest, and packed with biting wit - Bitter Is the New Black is a snarky memoir about losing it all and finding your funny. Not for the easily offended, but perfect for those who like their life lessons with plenty of humor and attitude.

    'Bitter Is the New Black' follows the story of Jen, a young professional who experiences a major setback in her life leading to a downward spiral. Despite starting off as a self-centered character, Jen's journey of self-discovery and redemption is at the core of the narrative. Through her sarcastic and witty personality, Jen navigates through life challenges, learns important life lessons, and ultimately finds her true passion for writing.

    The writing style of the book is described as humorous, honest, and relatable. Readers praise the author, Jen Lancaster, for her ability to blend wit and sarcasm, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and insightful. offers a mix of laughter, tears, and self-reflection as Jen's character evolves from being unsympathetic to finding redemption and pursuing her true calling.

    “Well, I guess that depends on your definition of ‘steal.’ I didn’t swipe the briefcase, but I didn’t pay for it either,” I reply to my rapt audience with a shrug. They gape at me with open mouths. Ap...
    March 2006
    412 pages

  9. #9

    How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids by Jancee Dunn
    Save:

    A reassuring, insightful, and funny read that validates the struggles of partnered parenting while offering concrete, practical steps to reconnect as a couple. Ideal for new (or seasoned) parents - just know it sometimes asks the reader to be the one to take the first leap.

    'How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids' by Jancee Dunn delves into the challenges faced by couples after having children, particularly focusing on the shift in responsibilities and dynamics within the relationship. Through personal anecdotes and relatable situations, the author explores the common struggles of new parents and provides practical advice on how to navigate these issues. Dunn's writing style is humorous, insightful, and candid, making the reader feel understood and less alone in their experiences.

    What set me off was embarrassingly trivial, yet the source of a baffling amount of conflict in the first few weeks of parenthood: whose turn it was to empty the Diaper Genie. On that day, it was Tom’s...
    March 2017
    288 pages

  10. #10

    Autobiography by Morrissey
    Save:

    A patchwork of lyrical genius, score-settling, and old-school glamour: captivating in parts, exasperating in others. For fans and the musically curious, it's an essential, if divisive, trip into the mind of a singular artist.

    Autobiography by Morrissey is a candid exploration of the singer's life, delving into his materially deprived childhood and his rise to success, while also exposing his struggles with anger, depression, and resignation. The book offers glimpses into Morrissey's thoughts at different points in his life, discussing what he deems important and showcasing his raw emotions. The narrative is a mix of poetic descriptions, dark humor, and introspective musings, providing a unique insight into the mind of the iconic musician.

    We are not vulgarians, yet here we are, in rent-demanding Queen’s Square backing onto the high walls of Loreto Convent, with its broken glass atop lest we, below, get any fancy ideas. The family is yo...
    December 2013
    480 pages

Page 1 of 3Next Page